Moments after news surfaced Robin Lopez agreed to a one-year deal with the Washington Wizards, reports surfaced that their star point guard, John Wall, “made it clear” he wants out of Washington.
The news of Wall set Twitter on fire which led to Lopez’s hilarious first Tweet following his signing with the Wizards.
What kind of firestorm has Lopez walked into?
Opening night of the NBA’s free agency period brought a wide range of emotions for Wizards fans. The team re-signed sharpshooting forward Davis Bertans to a five-year deal. They also added Lopez, who is expected to provide much-needed defense from the center position. But any excitement of the two transactions was tapered shortly afterwards as the news of Wall wanting out broke.
It appears Wall is none too pleased about how the Wizards discussed trading him to the Houston Rockets for Russell Westbrook. He also isn’t too keen with GM Tommy Sheppard saying the team is going to be built around emerging shooting guard Bradley Beal.
There’s uncertainty surrounding Wall’s long-term health as the five-time All-Star returns after missing nearly two calendar years due to a heel injury and a torn Achilles. There’s also uncertainty about the direction of the Wizards moving forward.
Wall’s trade request comes amid trade rumors surrounding Beal. Contending teams around the league are clamoring to acquire the 27-year old, who averaged over 30 points per game last season without Wall.
Nonetheless, it’s becoming increasingly obvious the situation Lopez believed he was walking into is no longer as clear as originally thought. At least for the moment, he can make light of what’s shaping to be a complexed turn of events in Washington.
